GAA Qualifiers: Backdoor Route Opens Up

All Ireland Football Championship Qualifiers

Derry v Longford

Longford will be disappointed at the way they exited the Leinster Championship at the hands of Wexford, Derry on the other hand should be well rested as they had plenty time to recover from their defeat to Donegal earlier in the season. Derry have a very strong midfield presence and that coupled with some good forward play will prove decisive. Longford may depend too heavily on the exploits of Paul Barden for scores.

Verdict: Derry

Limerick v London

London were one of the surprise teams last year in the championship and havn’t been far away from pulling off a surprise shock this year. Limerick haven’t really hit the same heights in the Munster championship in recent years due to the fact that Cork and Kerry were playing on a different level. London’s championship form seems more promising but home advantage is a massive boost to any side and I would reckon that Limerick should come out on top against this London side.

Verdict: Limerick

Laois v Fermanagh

Fermanagh will be the visitors to O’Moore Park to face a Laois side that look to be a strong and competitive outfit in the championship. Fermanagh were completely blitzed by Antrim as they crashed out of the Ulster championship. Laois showed a lot of potential especially against the Dubs and were leading at the break in that game. Laois will again be looking for inspirational scores from Donie Kingston and Ross Munnelly to bring them through this game. Fermanagh might not have enough strength in depth to overcome the midlanders and I would reckon it would a tall order for the Ernesiders to come away with a victory.

Verdict: Laois

Wicklow v Offaly

Offaly were once a strong team but in recent years they have stagnated, failing to make any progress and providing next to no competition for their opponents. Wicklow on the other hand are improving and will be hoping to make things go their way at the weekend. However both of these sides are well capable of winning this game, but home advantage will be the deciding factor in this game, but don’t be surprised if Offaly come out on top. Wicklow will be looking to control midfield and put this game beyond Offaly as soon as possible.